Do we get all our books at the law school bookstore (it seems so small in there to carry books for hundreds of courses)? And do all the classes typically have 1st day reading assignments?

1) You may do so, or you may get them elsewhere. Most 1Ls go to the bookstore, and the bookstore people are ready to fill your basket full of everything you need--you'll just tell them your section. I had bought the books through online retailers in advance for the most part. Casebooks are unusually expensive for no reason.

has anyone figured out yet how the whole buying a computer thing works with your student budget...? somebody said something about them deducting it from your student contribution? does this mean you get that much more aid?

i am currently abroad too and trying to figure everything out from here. not going to be back in the country until the 28th..but it's worth it

It does deduct from your contribution. The effect of this depends on the circumstances.